General News
22 August, 2023
Cash boost for mini trains
TWENTY-ONE organisations and schools across South West Victoria will receive a total of $44,000 under Wannon Water’s annual Ripple Effect community grants program.
TWENTY-ONE organisations and schools across South West Victoria will receive a total of $44,000 under Wannon Water’s annual Ripple Effect community grants program.
General manager community and corporate services Kellie King announced the successful recipients of the program this week.
Now in its fifth year, Ms King said the program reflects Wannon Water’s vision of ‘going beyond water for strong communities’.
“We believe that strengthening communities goes hand-in-hand with creating value for our customers and contributing to a better world,” she said.
“The breadth and quality of this year’s grant applications was incredibly high and demonstrates the strength of our community sector and the diversity of initiatives on offer.”
Funding was allocated in three streams, with up to $5000 available to community groups, up to $4000 for international aid, and up to $1000 for schools.
Ms King said the allocations addressed crucial areas of health and wellbeing, education, the environment and regional prosperity.
“Our 2023/24 round was heavily over-subscribed with many high-quality applications coming from across our service region,” she said.
“We’re pleased to support 21 of those projects which have a total cost value of more than $370,000.”
Among the recipients was South Western Model Engineers and Cobden Miniature Railway which received $3000 to improve access to their facility, making it safer and easier for wheelchairs, prams and people with mobility issues.
Cobden Miniature Railway secretary Sharron Howard welcomed the funding announcement.
“We’re building a covered waiting area for people waiting to get a train,” she said.
“It will be all abitilies access with a nice even surface so it will be good for people in wheelchairs and walkers so they can wait out of the rain and hot sun.
“It’s (the funding) greatly appreciated, it’s really good.
“The grant will help us get a start on the project.”
Mrs Howard encouraged residents interesting in getting involved in the poplar spot to attend an open day which is held on the third Sunday of each month as well as every Sunday of the school holidays.
A full list of the grant recipients is available at engage.wannonwater.com.au/grants.